It seems that we're all finding we have less time for games, as life's other commitments start to become priorities.
So, with less time to play, it makes sense (on some level... I know this isn't the purist approach) to just play games that are the best or most complete examples of a games series. Reading the Yakuza thread made me think 'I could never play all these, so if I had to pick one, which should it be?'.
So, to kick this off, I'm going to suggest that if you've only got time for one Professor Layton game, make it 'Professor Layton vs Phoenix Wright'
I've played them all, and this seemed the most complete, with a great story, good puzzles and a fine set of characters.
From what I've played so far, the latest 'Katrielle & the Millionaires Conspiracy' is one to miss.
So, for the purposes of making this a discussion, let's have your 'best in series' recommendations!
Please, let's not make this into a big argument! Make your selection from a game series, and explain (to people that might not know the series) why it stands out as the one worth playing if you have limited game time.
Let's take it as read that it doesn't mean all the others are crap! But you could also point out if there's one (or more) in the series worth avoiding.